Greenpeace

A creative talent show and brief dance-party capped off Activist Camp in Algonquin, IL over the weekend.  After a two-hour train ride northwest of the Windy City we met with fellow activists from ForestEthics for three days to establish new contacts and engage in comprehensive seminars.  The pleasant weather and the variety of vegan delicacies served were much appreciated.  The chief complaint was of the mosquitos which were abundant and unrelenting.

Starting with breakfast that included miso soup and granola, four periods were scheduled throughout each day with up to three class options to choose from.  Bottomless cups of coffee throughout the mornings kept everyone fully energized and evening activities included open-space sessions and campfire circles.  Trainings ranged from banner and prop making to the fundamentals of lobbying.  The history and practice of non-violence was quite informative with a review of successful movements throughout history and interactive exercises that provoked many thoughtful discussions.

"I've been going to summer camps as long as I can remember," Devin from California recalls.  "And now that I've 'grown up' the camps have only gotten better! The games are still the same, but the children have grown into amazing individuals with diverse backgrounds."

On Monday afternoon we joined ForestEthics for a direct action in downtown Chicago in front of Sears.